The promise between us

Chapter 9

Hospital Waiting Area

Michael Ifeanyi's POV

I stared at the hospital bill until the numbers became a blur.

Previous admission.

Outstanding balance.

Current admission.

Medication.

Tests.

Everything added together was more money than I had ever held in my life.

Mary sat beside me, Neither of us spoke, What was there left to say?

We had borrowed from family…Sold my wife's jewelry. Taken loans.

Even my savings for Richard's education had disappeared.

Still…

It wasn't enough, I lowered my head into my hands. I've failed her.

No…Mary reached for my hand, You haven't.

Before I could answer, a gentle voice interrupted us

Excuse me…

We both looked up.

A well-dressed woman stood before us.

She wore an elegant hijab, and there was kindness in her eyes.

My name is Aisha Maikudi.

Something about her face felt familiar.

Then I remembered.

The woman from the corridor, She offered a small smile.

I hope you don't mind me approaching you.

I stood immediately.

No, ma.

She glanced toward Samantha's room before looking back at us.

I couldn't help overhearing part of your conversation with the doctor a few days ago.

Embarrassment washed over me.

I'm sorry.

She shook her head…You have nothing to apologize for, She sat opposite us.

I've spent the last few days thinking about your family.

Mary frowned slightly.

Aisha took a slow breath.

I believe I may have a way to help your daughter.

Both of us looked at her…What do you mean Mary asked her as she quickly sit up.

She hesitated.

This isn't an easy conversation, She folded her hands neatly in her lap.

I have a son.

I exchanged a confused glance with my wife.

He's a good man.

But…

...he has refused every woman we've introduced to him.

I didn't understand where this was going.

Then she continued.

If…your daughter agrees to marry my son…

...my family will take full responsibility for her medical treatment, including the outstanding hospital bills and every expense going forward.

The world seemed to stop.

Mary stared at her. I couldn't even breathe.

I know how this sounds.. Aisha's voice remained calm. I'm not asking for an answer today.

She reached into her handbag and placed a simple card on the table.

Talk to your daughter. Talk to each other. Pray about it.

She stood.

I'll give your family one week, If your answer is no… She smiled softly. I'll respect your decision completely.

She turned to leave.

Then paused.

And one more thing…My son knows nothing about this.

With that…

She walked away.

Leaving the two of us staring at the card on the table.

As though our future had just been placed in front of us…

...and none of us knew whether to pick it up.